Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images
Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal have taken measures with their own first team squad to make space for the potential signing of Pedro Neto from Chelsea.
Despite being a regular in the starting side, the Blues have not made Neto an untouchable in their first team squad, opening up the possibility for a transfer.
Al-Hilal have taken the most notice of this, with it even being reported that Neto had agreed personal terms with them over a potential move.
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Al-Hilal terminate Malcom’s contract as they weigh up Pedro Neto move
Chelsea are holding out for a significant transfer fee to part ways with the Portugal international this summer, however Al-Hilal have taken action to allow space for him to join.
The club announced on Friday that they had terminated the contract of Malcom, who is also a winger.
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Al-Hilal have already brought in Crycensio Summerville this summer for big money, although their significant financial backing makes another transfer of this magnitude manageable.
A move there would see Neto link up with former Chelsea defender Kalidou Koulibaly, as well as Ruben Neves and Karim Benzema.
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Xabi Alonso doesn’t want Pedro Neto to leave
Xabi Alonso was not keen on parting ways with Neto this summer, given the fact that he is looking to maintain an experienced core in his first team squad.
The Spaniard has been using Neto as a wing-back since his return during pre-season, with him still currently expected to feature in that role against Fulham on Monday.
After joining the club as an attacking option, it remains to be seen if the change of position has played a part in Neto’s thinking. He has fallen behind the likes of Morgan Rogers and Estevao Willian in the pecking order.
Selling him at this stage would not give Chelsea long to sign a replacement, and potentially leave them weaker going into the 2026/27 season.
This could increase the pressure on Geovany Quenda to deliver in his first campaign at the club, with Neto’s countryman ready to make his debut for the club.